Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) 'Splendor F1' – Early, Sweet Watermelon of Top Quality

Citrullus lanatus 'Splendor F1' is a premium F1 hybrid watermelon known for its early ripening, exceptional sweetness, and reliable yield. This modern hybrid is ideal for both home gardeners and professional growers who want to produce a high-quality watermelon with uniform, juicy fruits. 'Splendor F1' combines vigorous growth with excellent flavor, making it a favorite for both home gardens and commercial cultivation.

Features of 'Splendor F1'

'Splendor F1' produces medium to large watermelons weighing 4–6 kg. The rind is dark green with light stripes, firm and protective, making the fruit easy to store and transport. The flesh is deep red, juicy, and extremely sweet, with a high Brix level that guarantees an intense flavor experience.

The flesh is firm, almost fiber-free, and deliciously juicy, ideal for slices, cubes, and summer desserts. The seeds are relatively small and sparse, making the melon easy and enjoyable for the whole family to eat.

Growth habit and cultivation

'Splendor F1' is a vigorous, early-maturing hybrid that produces reliable fruit, even in temperate climates or shorter summer seasons. The plant grows vigorously and produces multiple, uniform fruits per plant.

Optimal growing conditions:

• Location: full sun, at least 6–8 hours of direct light

• Soil: airy, humus-rich and well-drained

• Water: Water regularly, especially during fruiting; water at the roots

• Temperature: Optimal growth at 24–32 °C

• Planting distance: 100–120 cm, depending on available space

Mulching or black sheeting helps maintain soil temperature and moisture retention, which promotes early growth and sugar buildup in the fruit flesh. Supplemental potassium feeding during fruit set encourages larger and sweeter fruit.

Benefits of 'Splendor F1'

'Splendor F1' offers a range of benefits for both hobby gardeners and professional growers:

• Early maturing
  Quick harvest, ideal for short summers or cooler climates.

• Deep red, juicy flesh
  Intensely sweet and aromatic, with a fine, almost fibre-free texture.

• High yield
  Multiple uniform fruits per plant, reliable and consistent.

• Strong plant growth.
  Good resistance to stress factors such as fluctuating temperatures and drought.

• Few seeds
  Easy and fun to eat, ideal for children and adults.

• Good shelf life
  Strong skin protects the fruits, making transport and storage no problem.

Culinary applications

The juicy, deep-red flesh of 'Splendor F1' is versatile:

• Fresh food as a summer snack

• Fruit salads and bowls for color and taste

• Smoothies and juices for a natural, sweet taste

• Desserts, such as sorbets, watermelon ice cream or fruit bowls

• Savory dishes, for example watermelon with mint, feta or basil

Thanks to its firm structure, the flesh remains intact when cut and processed, making the melon also suitable for presentation and catering purposes.

Conclusion

Citrullus lanatus 'Splendor F1' is an early-maturing, productive, and flavorful watermelon with deep-red, juicy flesh and a reliable yield. The combination of early maturity, intense sweetness, and vigorous growth makes this variety ideal for gardeners looking for a high-quality, easy-to-grow watermelon. For those seeking a visually appealing and exceptionally flavorful melon, 'Splendor F1' is an excellent choice.